Practice Proper Swimming Pool Drainage to Protect Local Streams

The temperatures are warming up, and pools are beginning to open. As you maintain your pool this summer, it is essential to handle the water and chemicals properly to protect local waterways. The Environmental Division of the Department of Development Services in Stafford County asks that residents review proper pool drainage and practices to help conserve and protect the local environment.

Did you know that improper pool drainage can harm local streams and aquatic life or cause flooding issues on nearby properties? It is illegal to discharge swimming pool water that contains chlorine, debris, saltwater, biocides or other chemicals to the storm drain system or streams, and doing so may result in penalties. The County requests the community's assistance in preventing pollution at its source to maintain water quality and ensure compliance with both local and federal stormwater regulations.

Here are some tips when draining your pool to protect the environment:

• Before draining, ensure the water is safe by removing chlorine or bromine. This can be achieved by allowing the water to sit for 10 days or by using chemical removal agents. Check that the pH is between 6.0 and 8.0, and remove any debris, such as leaves or algae. Turn off the heating equipment to allow the water to cool before draining.
• If possible, drain the water onto a well-vegetated area on your property, avoiding storm drains, streams, or neighboring properties. For saltwater pools, never discharge the water into your yard or storm drains, and do not drain the saltwater into your septic system. Hire a licensed sewage handling service to transport the water to a treatment facility.
• Cover your pool when not in use to minimize debris buildup. If the water is chemical-free, consider reusing it to water your lawn or garden. Be cautious with water treated with algaecides, as these may contain metals harmful to aquatic life. Additionally, tools like level spreaders can help distribute water flow to prevent flooding and erosion.

By following these processes, the community helps protect local streams and aquatic habitats, contributing to a cleaner environment.

To report any illicit discharges to the storm sewer system, contact the Environmental Division via AskBlu (Report Violations - Report Water Pollution), or by email. Photos are appreciated when submitting a report to help streamline the process. Thank you for helping to keep Stafford's beautiful waterways clean and safe!